In this video I want to share some insights into blended learning.
First, a definition of blended learning.
Blended learning is any form of learning that combines physical classroom learning
with digitally mediated learning.
Teachers who recommend websites for homework are engaging in blended learning.
This is a simple form of blended learning that can empower our students and expand
their learning, digital literacies and autonomy.
Other blended learning models include remote lessons, online materials, online
project work, synchronous and asynchronous peer and teacher interaction.
Blended learning can change the learning paradigm and help students to take more
responsibility for their learning. Teachers can give students online
materials to study before class. These materials can cover grammar and vocabulary
input, using instructional videos, texts, audio and interactive exercises. Then
students come to class already prepared and can use class time to practise using
the language with other students. This is called 'flipped learning'.
Blended learning isn't just a mixture of autonomous and teacher-directed classes.
Learning platforms enable peer-to-peer learning through team-based project work,
discussion forums and collaborative online tasks. These help students develop
valuable teamworking and collaboration skills. Teacher presence in the online
part of the course helps ensure successful outcomes. Teachers can do virtual
tutorials, drop in to group work, moderate forums and coach students through project
work. A common question is, 'What percentage of the work should be online?'
To answer this question, consider what works better online or in the classroom.
This links to how student feedback is delivered. Input such as vocabulary and
grammar can be done online using video and interactive activities. Feedback for this
is straightforward. There's a right and a wrong answer. The computer can tell the
students whether they're right or wrong, and give them feedback. Students can
access reading or listening texts online, and do interactive comprehension checks.
The computer can tell the student whether their answers are correct or not.
If reading and listening tasks require more complex answers, you can use forums so
students compare and discuss their answers together.
Writing activities are time-consuming. Putting writing activities online can save
classroom time. There are programs that can help students with writing online.
Some sophisticated artificial intelligence programs give students quite accurate
feedback on their written work. There are still advantages to teacher feedback, but
writing work can be marked using digital tools, and feedback can be recorded using
video or audio. Students can improve speaking and pronunciation online using
video and audio, but they still need to practise with other people.
Interacting with a person is different from recording yourself or from
videoconferencing. Responding to another person involves interpersonal skills and
elements of body language that can't be simulated. So this is best done in the
classroom.
So, my tip is when blending learning, don't think about percentages. Think about what
medium works best for the type of skills students need to develop, and design your
course around your students' needs.